History for Nigeria as Flamingos Beat Japan 2-1 to Lift First U-17 Women's World Cup

Nigeria's U-17 women's national team, the Flamingos, have defeated Japan 2-1 to win the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in Morocco.

The Flamingos secured the historic victory on Saturday at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, Pitch 3, in Rabat, claiming their first title in the competition.

Awawu Bashiru gave Nigeria the lead in the 39th minute with a long-range effort that slipped through the hands of the Japanese goalkeeper. Shortly after the restart, Oluebube Umejiaku doubled the advantage in the 47th minute, putting the Flamingos firmly in control. Japan fought back to reduce the deficit through Fuki Ito in the 80th minute, but Nigeria held on for the win.

The Flamingos' campaign in Morocco did not begin as expected, as they suffered a 2-1 defeat to Poland in their opening group match. They then recorded a narrow victory over Puerto Rico before producing one of the tournament's biggest upsets, defeating defending champions DPR Korea 3-1.

Building on that result, the Nigerian side went on to beat Mexico and Venezuela, before overcoming Brazil in the semi-finals to secure a historic place in the final.

Nigeria are the first African country to reach the final of the competition.